Must-Migrate vs Archive: Classifying Data for a Smooth Windchill Migration


Migrating to a new version of Windchill or moving to PTC Cloud (Windchill+) is the perfect time to clean up your PLM environment. But here’s the catch—moving every single object you’ve ever created can slow down the migration, inflate costs, and clutter your system. The solution? Classify your data into two categories: must-migrate and archive. As part of a broader Windchill PLM Implementation Plan: End-to-End Framework, data classification ensures your migration is efficient, cost-effective, and sets the foundation for long-term system performance.

Why Data Classification Matters in Windchill

Windchill stores years’ worth of CAD documents, WTParts, Change Objects, and supporting files. Without classification, you risk:

  • Migrating obsolete designs that nobody uses.

  • Paying for extra storage in the cloud.

  • Overloading the migration process and extending downtime.

A clear migration vs archive plan ensures your new environment runs faster, cleaner, and is easier to maintain.

1. Must-Migrate Data in Windchill

This data you can’t operate without needs to be live and accessible from day one in your new Windchill instance.

Examples in Windchill:

  • Active WTParts & BOMs linked to current or upcoming products.

  • In-progress Change Objects (ECRs, ECOs, Change Tasks) are still in the workflow.

  • CAD Documents used in ongoing designs (Creo, SolidWorks, NX, etc.).

  • Regulatory compliance records (e.g., aerospace, medical device, automotive) are required for audits.

  • Supplier documents tied to active vendor relationships.

Checklist Questions:

  • Is it tied to a live product or current project?

  • Is it legally required to be accessible now?

  • Has it been modified or used in the last 18 months?

2. Archive Data in Windchill

Archive data still has value, but it doesn’t need to live in your active system. Storing it separately saves space and improves performance.

Examples in Windchill:

  • Retired product data and superseded CAD versions.

  • Completed Change Objects with no active downstream impact.

  • Legacy supplier documentation for vendors no longer in use.

  • Historical BOMs for discontinued product lines.

Archive Best Practices:

  • Move archived data to a separate Windchill vault or off-system storage.

  • Keep metadata searchable for future reference.

  • Clearly label lifecycle states (e.g., Obsolete, Historical) to avoid confusion.

For more details, check out Windchill Archive Solutions.

3. Using Windchill Tools for Data Classification

Windchill offers several features to make classification easier:

  • Advanced Search & Reports – Identify objects by last modified date or lifecycle state.

  • Lifecycle State Filters – Mark data as In Work, Released, Obsolete, or Archived.

  • Custom Attributes – Tag data with migration priority levels.

4. Benefits of a Smart Migration Strategy

By separating must-migrate from archive data, you’ll:

  • Reduce migration time and costs.

  • Improve system speed in your new environment.

  • Keep your active workspace clean and manageable.

  • Maintain compliance without dragging outdated files into production.

5. PLM Migration Risks to Avoid for PTC Windchill

Even with clear classification, other migration pitfalls can derail your project:

  • Skipping data integrity checks – Missing or corrupted CAD links can disrupt downstream processes.

  • Underestimating downtime – Poor scheduling can cause significant engineering delays.

  • Ignoring customization compatibility – Older custom code may not work in newer or cloud environments.

  • Overlooking integrations – ERP, MES, and other connected systems may require reconfiguration.

  • Insufficient user training – A technically perfect migration can still fail if users don’t know how to navigate the new environment.

Proactively addressing these risks will keep your migration on schedule and ensure smoother adoption. For a deeper look at how PLM compares to ERP and MES, visit Compare Manufacturing Software: PLM vs ERP and PLM vs MES.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re upgrading your on-premise Windchill environment to the latest release or making the leap to Windchill+ in the cloud, taking the time to carefully classify your data into must-migrate and archive categories is a critical step. A well-organized and streamlined dataset not only speeds up the migration process but also reduces costs, improves system performance, and ensures your new environment is free from unnecessary clutter - making your launch smoother, faster, and more successful.

For any other support-related issues, please feel free to contact PTC Certified Windchill Support Provider.

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